At what age should a calf be weaned?

The age at which a calf should be weaned is typically around 8 to 10 months. This timeframe allows the calf to develop adequately, gaining the necessary nutrients from its mother’s milk while also adapting to solid feed. Weaning is a crucial stage in a calf's life as it transitions from a milk-based diet to one consisting of forage and grains, which supports healthy growth and development.

Weaning too early might hinder the calf's growth and health due to insufficient nutrient intake, whereas waiting too long could lead to decreased milk production from the mother and potential behavioral issues. Therefore, the 8 to 10-month range is considered optimal for ensuring the calf is mature enough to thrive on solid feed while maintaining the health of the cow.